Description

A key to the successful implementation of Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) for Illinois transportation projects is the
active and informed participation of Illinois Department of Transportation’s (IDOT) stakeholders. Essential to this
participation is a public understanding of CSS and the procedures through which CSS is being implemented by IDOT.
The objective of this research was to develop an internet-based tutorial training course to provide information on CSS
policies and procedures to affected citizens, elected officials, local agencies, interest groups, and other stakeholders of the
IDOT. This course will enable these stakeholders to understand CSS and how to participate in the process
The study investigated possible approaches to the presentation of training materials in an online environment. The
study also collected information on CSS web-based training in other states as well as the latest developments on CSS in
Illinois. The study team and the Technical Review Panel jointly developed course content requirements and selected
delivery mechanisms.
Using this information, an online training course was developed incorporating streaming audio/visual training module
presentations. These presentations included an audio narrative, with corresponding visual presentation, and selected video
interview segments. The use of streaming audio and video provides a more personalized presence to stakeholders and
promotes understandability. The modules can also be used at public meetings as a slide presentation and as content for
information pamphlets.
The major benefit of this online CSS training course is to provide knowledge of IDOT’s CSS process to a wide variety of
statewide stakeholders. Once developed for delivery over the Internet, the cost to the state of providing this training is
minimal. Once trained, these stakeholders will be able to participate more effectively in the transportation project decision
making process. IDOT will be able to obtain input from a wider variety of stakeholders for more efficient implementation of
CSS.